Self-Efficacy and Career Choice Among Undegraduate Students of Ruaha Catholic University in Iringa, Tanzania

The study aimed to assess the relationship between self-efficacy and career choice among undergraduate students of Ruaha Catholic University in Iringa region, Tanzania. The study adopted mixed method approach, specifically convergent parallel research design for data collection. The study consisted of 223 respondents from third year and second year students. Instrument developed by Schwarzer and Jerusalem (1995) for self-efficacy was used to collect data. Third year students were given questionnaires while second year data were collected through focus group discussion. The validity of qualitative data (open-ended questions and focus group discussion interviews) was obtained through triangulation, rich or thick description and clarifying researcher biases (reflexivity or bracketing). Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive analysis- correlation analysis by SPSS version 23. Qualitative data was analysed using content analysis by data managing, transcribing data into segments, coding and categorizing into themes and interpreting data, the results were presented into direct quotations and narratives. Findings revealed that students were confident in their personal skills and believed that they were capable in their career choice. The findings also showed that self-efficacy influenced career choice among undergraduate students.